I'm very excited to share this post with you guys! Most of you know me from TV and fashion mags, but today I want to talk about something else that's very important to me -- helping our generation make a difference. As a teen, sometimes it feels like other people are making all the decisions and we're left without a say. Our opinions matter too, and while we may not be old enough to vote, there are still other ways we can create change.
Because we are all unique and have different passions to share with the world, making a difference is about finding what makes you happy so that you can embrace it and share it with others. But how many of us actually know how to do that? To help make things easier, here are some tips for finding your passion, making it unique, and then sharing it. Added bonus: if you keep reading you'll find out how you can get a starring role in a mash-up video with yours truly. Here goes:
Find Your Passion! Our generation is lucky because there are tons of ways to get involved. I've always loved cheerleading because it's a passion I share with my friends and my sister. There's a lot out there to choose from so sometimes it can be overwhelming to find what's right for you. Keep an open mind and don't be afraid to try something new. If you're not sure where to start, ask your friends, parents and teachers for advice. Look into the different clubs at your school, extracurricular sports, the arts -- try it all! That's what I did and I definitely found some things I love.
Be Unique! When you find something you're passionate about, you'll want to get involved. Whether you're petitioning to get new computers in your school's classrooms, joining the debate club or soccer team you're making a positive difference and standing up for what you believe in. My family always stresses the importance of living a life that's right for you, and not thinking you need to be like everyone else. You may be interested in different activities than your friends, but sometimes trying something on your own can lead you to a new adventure. Don't be afraid to get involved in something -- friends always make it fun, but it's ok to do your own thing, too.
Share It! We all know that not everybody is fortunate enough to fuel their passions, or even to find them. This is where you can help make a difference (and at the same time, star in a video with me!). I'm working with The Clorox Company on a program called Power A Bright Future, which will award grants to five lucky schools to fund new or existing programs, and ultimately help students find or live their passions (think new football fields, band instruments, state-of-the art technology, etc.). It's up to us to help pick the winner by voting, which you can do at www.PowerABrightFuture.com. But before you do that, stop by Clorox's Facebook page to find out how to share your passion in an ever-changing video with me!
I hope this advice helps. I'd love to hear more about your passions and how you're using them to help make a difference, so share your tips and comments!! And don't forget to check out Clorox's Facebook page to share your passions. You'll love the video, I promise.